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Science News for April 9, 2008


SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Module map links embryonic stem cells and cancer stem cells

Researchers found a shared genetic expression pattern between embryonic stem cells and human cancer cells, which may have significant implications for cancer therapeutics. A gene module map was created to relate transcriptional programs in different cell types.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 9, 2008

Attacks against medical researchers: Time to take a stand

A commentary in Biological Psychiatry highlights attacks on medical researchers conducting non-human primate research, emphasizing their vital role in psychiatric disorder treatment. The authors condemn these acts and advocate for public action to protect scientists.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 9, 2008

Maintaining aerobic fitness could delay biological aging by up to 12 years

Regular aerobic exercise can slow or reverse the decline of maximal aerobic power, delaying biological aging and maintaining functional independence. By conserving maximal oxygen intake, individuals may retain their physical abilities longer, reducing the risk of serious disease and improving overall health.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateApr 9, 2008

Leading experts investigate Shaken Baby Syndrome

The symposium examined the incidence of inflicted traumatic brain injury in young children and explored issues of definitions, surveillance methods, and prevention strategies. Key findings indicate that SBS is a form of intentional injury with a high mortality rate and long-term disability for survivors.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 9, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Genetic test offers clues about cardiac hypertrophy in children

A new genetic test has identified mutations in 10 genes as a possible cause of cardiac hypertrophy in children. The test found that nearly 50% of children without family histories had mutations in these genes, shedding light on the underlying causes of the condition.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 9, 2008

Forecasting MDs' prescriptions' choice? Ask their patients, says Management Insights study

A Management Insights study finds that physicians consider patients' inputs when making prescriptions, improving forecasting performance. However, patient influence diminishes for specialist doctors and those treating severe symptoms. The study has significant implications for pharmaceutical executives and marketing strategies.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateApr 9, 2008

Joslin study identifies gene involved in blood stem cell replication, movement

A team of scientists at the Joslin Diabetes Center has identified a key regulator of hematopoietic stem cell migration and proliferation, which could lead to improved bone marrow and blood cell transplants. The discovery also holds promise for treating type 1 diabetes and enhancing recovery from infections after transplantation.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 9, 2008
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Diabetes in mid-life linked to increased risk of Alzheimer's disease

A long-term study published in Neurology found that men who develop diabetes in mid-life are nearly one-and-a-half times more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those without insulin problems. The association was strongest in people without the APOE4 gene, which is known to increase Alzheimer's risk.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 9, 2008

Study sheds light on link between sleep disorder, behavior issues in kids

A new study by researchers at Hasbro Children's Hospital found that children with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) who are overweight, have short sleep periods, or another sleep disorder like insomnia are more likely to have behavioral problems. The study revealed that SDB severity had a relatively weaker influence on behavioral outcomes.

SourceLifespan·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateApr 9, 2008

It's neck-and-neck down the long stretch for 2 stroke-prevention procedures

A new study suggests that minimally invasive carotid stenting is as effective as open surgery in preventing strokes among high-risk patients. After three years, patients who underwent stenting had similar rates of stroke, heart attack, or death compared to those who received traditional open surgery.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 9, 2008
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Cells on path to becoming mature T-cells more flexible than commonly thought

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have found that juvenile cells on their way to becoming mature immune cells can develop into either T cells or other blood-cell types. This challenges the currently accepted model of T-cell development, which suggests that these cells are committed to the T-cell path from...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateApr 9, 2008

Kidney cancer deaths show overall decrease in Europe

A recent study published in BJU International found that kidney cancer deaths in Europe have declined by 13% for men and 17% for women between 1992 and 2002, with the largest reductions seen in Austria and Germany. However, the study also reveals significant variations in mortality rates across different countries.

SourceWiley·JournalBJU International·DateApr 9, 2008

Safer, easier system for remote explosive detection

Researchers at the University of Michigan have created materials that can detect TNT and alert to its presence remotely, reducing danger for military personnel. The system uses low-cost, battery-free sensors that emit light when excited by infrared light, which is then detected by a specially-designed light-collection system.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNanotechnology·DateApr 9, 2008
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Your neighborhood can affect your health

Studies found that people living in deprived areas had significantly worse cognitive function and higher mobility problems compared to those in less deprived areas. The research highlights the importance of adequate healthcare and social care in poorer communities.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 9, 2008

First do no harm? UH prof taking opposite approach to treat asthma

Researchers found that chronic use of beta blockers alleviates asthma by helping airways relax and dilate, providing longer-term respiratory function. The study builds on earlier breakthroughs in treating congestive heart failure, where beta blockers improved outcomes despite initial worsening symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology·DateApr 9, 2008

Rocket mystery explained with new imaging technique

A new imaging technique helps demystify the cause of explosive sound waves in rockets, revealing spinning acoustic waves that gain destructive power as they rotate around the combustion chamber. The study provides a clearer understanding of this phenomenon and brings scientists closer to preventing its occurrence.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateApr 9, 2008

UD researchers discover novel 'gene toggles' in world's top food crop

University of Delaware researchers have discovered a new type of molecule called natural antisense microRNAs (nat-miRNAs) that can turn off genes in rice, which is the primary source of food for half the world's population. These novel molecules may help scientists locate similar gene regulators in other organisms, including humans.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 2008

Kansas State flower receives scientific attention

A K-State biology professor is studying the evolution of the state flower, sunflower, using a $610,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. The research focuses on how environmental stress may have caused the activation of retrotransposons in hybrid species, leading to massive genomic expansion and restructuring.

SourceKansas State University·DateApr 9, 2008
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Shorebird numbers crash: survey alarm

A recent study reveals a drastic decline in shorebird populations over the past 25 years, with migratory species suffering a 73% drop and resident shorebirds declining by 81%. The loss of wetlands and habitats is a significant contributor to this decline, highlighting the need for improved conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalBiological Conservation·DateApr 9, 2008

Dietary oil may need help in avoiding any side effects of weight loss

A new study from Ohio State University found that conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) may need to be paired with the hormone leptin to prevent side effects of rapid weight loss. The study used mice genetically engineered to have no leptin, finding that CLA diets can result in weight loss but also insulin resistance.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateApr 9, 2008
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Boston College biologists build a better mouse model for cancer research

Researchers created a novel cell line that replicates the full spectrum of systemic metastatic cancer, enabling new discoveries about the role of macrophages in cancer's spread. The model has been shown to produce tumors in 100% of mice with healthy immune systems, paving the way for new therapies targeting these cells.

SourceBoston College·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateApr 9, 2008

New studies add insights to infant feeding and obesity issue

Recent research presents mixed findings on infant feeding and obesity, with some studies suggesting potential associations between infant nutrition and health outcomes. These studies provide new insights into the complex relationships between infant feeding practices, maternal factors, and childhood obesity.

SourceKellen Communications·DateApr 9, 2008
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Wellmune WGP supplementation alleviates

Research conducted by Miami Research Associates found that Wellmune WGP supplementation reduced the incidence of medically verified fever in healthy subjects. Additionally, the study showed significant improvements in physical energy and emotional well-being, with no need for work or school absences due to cold-like symptoms.

SourceStrategic Communications·DateApr 9, 2008

Chronic kidney disease should not prevent women from taking the osteoporosis drug raloxifene

A study published in the Journal of the American Society Nephrology found that raloxifene increases bone mineral density and reduces vertebral fractures in postmenopausal women with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease. The medication is safe and effective for this patient population, reversing bone loss and fracture risk.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 9, 2008

Just 20 minutes of weekly housework boosts mental health

A large Scottish Health Survey study found that just 20 minutes of weekly physical activity, including housework, reduces the risk of stress and anxiety. The more activity a person engages in, the lower their chances of psychological distress.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateApr 9, 2008

Study: Health 'shocks' diminish wealth more later in life

A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found that seniors who develop serious illnesses later in life lose more of their savings. The study compared the long-term financial repercussions of pre-existing chronic health problems with those caused by the sudden onset of a new health problem late in life. Participants over 70 ...

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Population Economics·DateApr 9, 2008
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

People with diabetes may have all natural citrus supplement

Two studies suggest that Diabetinol, a natural citrus supplement, improves blood glucose numbers and LDL-cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The supplement shows promise in lowering blood glucose levels after meals and improving heart health, potentially reducing diabetic complications.

SourceStrategic Communications·DateApr 9, 2008

How neural sludge accumulates in Alzheimer's

Researchers identified how toxic protein plaque accumulates in the brain of people with Alzheimer's disease. The study found that endocytosis plays a crucial role in transporting amyloid precursor protein into neurons, leading to A

SourceCell Press·DateApr 9, 2008
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Acute kidney injury with sepsis -- a unique pathophysiology

Researchers found septic acute kidney injury (AKI) patients have higher acuity of illness, lower blood pressure, and worse pulmonary function compared to non-septic AKI. The study suggests septic AKI requires specific clinical interventions to reduce injury and promote kidney recovery.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCritical Care·DateApr 9, 2008

Researchers close in on origins of main ingredient of Alzheimer's plaques

A study has revealed that endocytosis is necessary for the production of amyloid beta, a key component of Alzheimer's brain plaques. The research found that endocytosis plays a critical role in increasing amyloid beta levels, which are coupled to normal nerve cell communication called synaptic activity.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateApr 9, 2008

Personality disorders cause emotional reactions in staff

A study published in BMC Psychiatry found that healthcare staff's emotional reactions to substance abuse patients with personality disorders depend on the type of disorder. Patients with antisocial personality disorder elicit feelings of distance, while those with avoidant personality disorder induce feelings of helpfulness.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateApr 9, 2008
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Cancer stem cells created with technique developed at Stanford

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have successfully created cancer stem cells in a laboratory setting, shedding new light on the origins of these rare and difficult-to-study cells. The breakthrough could lead to new ways of understanding how cancer cells form and developing more effective treatments.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 9, 2008

Gene variant increases risk of asthma

A tiny variation in the CHI3L1 gene increases blood levels of YKL-40, a biomarker for asthma. The genetic variation also lowers YKL-40 levels and protects against asthma. Researchers found similar connections between the CHI3L1 variations, YKL-40 levels and asthma susceptibility in three genetically diverse populations.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 9, 2008

Power of molecular imaging reveals secrets of the heart

Researchers used PET and SPECT imaging to monitor the effectiveness of a new therapy, which successfully preserved healthy heart tissue and corrected blood flow imbalance. Nearly 50% of repaired artery segments showed normalization of glucose metabolism and coronary blood flow.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateApr 9, 2008